How can we ensure our words edify others in church settings? Our Guiding Verse “Yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.” (1 Corinthians 14:19) Why Paul’s Choice Matters - Edification tops eloquence. - Clarity beats impressiveness. - Love directs content and tone. Principles for Edifying Speech - Speak to be understood; avoid insider jargon. - Aim to build, not to showcase gifts. - Keep messages concise and Scripture-saturated. - Ensure every word points hearers toward Christ. Practical Steps Before Speaking • Pray: invite the Spirit to guide heart and tongue (Luke 12:12). • Examine motive: desire to serve, not to shine (1 Peter 4:11). • Filter through truth: confirm alignment with the Word (John 17:17). • Plan for clarity: outline key points; avoid needless digressions. • Check tone: seasoned with grace, not harshness (Colossians 4:6). • Seek confirmation: trusted believers can flag blind spots (Proverbs 27:17). Scriptural Connections - Ephesians 4:29 — “Only what is helpful for building up…” - Proverbs 15:23 — “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply…” - James 3:1-2 — Teachers bear weighty responsibility over words. - Colossians 3:16 — Let the word of Christ dwell richly as we teach and admonish. A Quick Edification Checklist □ True to Scripture □ Clear and understandable □ Motivated by love □ Timely and fitting □ Humble in delivery □ Directed toward spiritual growth Growing Together in Grace - Encourage testimonies that spotlight God, not the speaker. - Foster a culture of gentle correction when words wound. - Celebrate concise, Scripture-centered contributions in gatherings. - Model edifying speech at leadership level; the body will follow. |
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